The Azores Airlines World Masters Championships are just around the corner. And because it's an event like no other, Tour Manager Renato Hickel gives a breakdown on how the competition will unfold.
Turns out it's a 'Round-Robin' type of draw. To simplify: In groups, each surfer will surf against everyone else. There are 12 Masters (aged 45 and above), 9 Grand Masters (aged 55 and over) and for the first time 6 women Masters.
So basically a total of 33 qualifying heats before we turn to the usual man-on-man Semis and Final.
All three divisions have equal prize-money and each winner will take home US $18,000 and the prestigious World Titles, runner-ups will earn US $10,000, equal thirds will get US $5,000 and the rest of the field US $4,000.
Watch the event LIVE right here from September 18-23, 2018.
More from Azores:
Pre-Event | Photo Gallery | Teaser